We recently highlighted LG’s VR for G3, which is LG’s plastic version of Google Cardboard, but LG’s not the only one making a virtual reality headset that works with Cardboard. And today Google announced an initiative to make finding Cardboard-compatible headsets easier.
Google today announced its Works with Google Cardboard program, which VR headset makers can use to ensure that their unit is fully compatible with Cardboard apps. The device makers can define their unit’s features like focal length and inter-lens distance, and they’ll get a QR code that the user can scan with the Cardboard app. Once they do, all of their other Cardboard apps will be optimized for their headset.
Manufacturers can also apply to get a Works with Google Cardboard certification badge for their VR unit. This will let users know at a glance that the device plays nicely with Google Cardboard apps.
Google’s program also includes features for developers and users. On the dev side of things, Google has published design guidelines that will help developers ensure that their app is usable and keep them from falling into the typical VR pitfalls. Users are getting all kinds of new VR apps all of the time, and the Google Cardboard app itself was recently updated with Material Design and some bug fixes.
Virtual reality is still in its early days, and so things like Works with Google Cardboard will help VR to gain traction with consumers by offering an experience that can adapt to whatever VR headset that they choose. That means that they don’t have to worry about picking the right headset that’ll work with Google Cardboard.
Are you interested in owning a VR headset?
